Egypt to include five young players in squad for November AFCON qualifiers

Egypt technical handlers are monitoring five promising young players as they consider introducing fresh faces into the senior squad ahead of the upcoming international assignments.

The players, who have attracted attention through their performances and potential, are being assessed by head coach Hossam Hassan and his technical team as part of efforts to strengthen the Pharaohs’ options for the future.

The three youth team players attracting particular attention are Muhannad Al-Shami, Mohamed Hamad and Mahmoud Salah, whose development is being closely followed by the national team handlers.

The technical team is understood to be keen on seeing the trio gain more first-team opportunities at their respective clubs, particularly Al Ahly and Zamalek, before making a final assessment of their readiness for senior international football.

Meanwhile, Al Ahly youngsters Mohamed Abdullah and Omar Sayed Moawad are also under observation as the national team continues to identify emerging talents capable of making the step up to the senior level.

However, the two players are expected to benefit from more playing opportunities at Al Ahly to enable the technical handlers to properly assess their development and competitive readiness.

The monitoring exercise forms part of Egypt’s broader plans to build a competitive squad by giving talented youngsters the opportunity to establish themselves within the senior national team setup.

Hossam Hassan’s side will begin their November training camp on November 9 as preparations intensify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Malawi.

Egypt will host Malawi in Cairo on November 13 before travelling for the return fixture on November 17.

The Pharaohs currently lead their qualifying group with four points from their opening two matches and will be determined to strengthen their position with positive results in the upcoming encounters.